STATUS OF LOW-FLOOR TRANSIT BUS DEVELOPMENT

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires that transit buses be accessible to virtually all disabled persons. For transit this means that accessibility approaches other than lifts may be required - such as low-floor buses. The report describes the status of low-floor bus developments in North America and Europe and the current availability from both European and North American bus manufacturers. These current developments are analyzed to determine whether they are meaningful contributions to the ultimate goal of complying with the new accessible vehicle guidelines. The report discusses the differences between U.S. and European bus design objectives, passenger seating, multi-level floor interior, as well as specific legislation and requirements for accommodating disabled persons on transit buses.